Seeking Sinai

Dr. Mia Bloom, author and professor at Georgia State University sits down with Rabbi Natan for a discussion on the impact of terrorism and the evolving threat that it poses to Israel and free societies everywhere. Dr. Bloom is the author of the recently published book Veiled Threats: Women and Global Jihad, and has also published several recent articles on gender-based violence on October 7th as well as the LGBTQ+ community's relationship with the Israeli Palestinian conflict. 

As we find ourselves on the precipice of our Festival of Liberation, join us for some refreshing voices of what freedom means in our current moment. In addition to Rabbi Natan and Beth Schafer, we have highlighted several other voices from across the congregation and beyond. May we all have a happy Passover and may our 59 hostages see freedom very soon.

Join Rabbis Ron Segal and Natan Trief for a deep dive into the "most important election you have never heard of." Elections for the World Zionist Congress are in full swing and there are many profoundly important issues at stake. Rabbi Segal will discuss his recent trip to Israel and the conversation veers toward Jewish unity and the importance of civility even among profound and passionate disagreements.

Rabbi Sam joins the podcast to discuss some of her profound takeaways from her recent trip to Israel. We talk about the release of the hostages, the resilience to rebuild, the spirituality infused in Israeli society now, and we even venture into political territory on both sides of the ocean. We end by discussing something concrete that each and every person can do to get more involved. 

Join Rabbi Natan for an inspiring conversation with Sally Poolat, the director of the Southeast U.S. for Leket, Israel's National Food Bank. How has the war impacted the neediest families within Israel? In times of urgent crisis, how does Israel uphold the biblical mandate to feed the hungry and care for the vulnerable? As a new hostage deal has just been announced and as the needs within Israel continue to mount, we focus on learning about, supporting, and fulfilling our Jewish mandate for tikkun olam, repairing the world, starting with those in our own extended family of "am yisrael."

Join Rabbis Ron and Natan for a special Hanukkah episode as they discuss the meaning of the holiday in light of the current conflict in Israel. How do we focus on light even in a time of darkness? How do we show Jewish pride in a time of rising antisemitism? Together, they break down the various miracles of Hanukkah and how we can see them playing out in modern day Israel. A joyful and light-filled Hanukkah to all!

Join us for a conversation with Dr. Jeremy Schube as we discuss Zionism, antizionism, Jewish pride, and how we are raising our own kids to be proud Jews and lovers of Israel. Jeremy's voice is an important one and a refreshing one as a product of Jewish day schools and formative experiences in Israel before deciding to start a family. 

We are back with the second part of this special episode with Noa Fay and others. Join us for a fascinating panel discussion on antisemitism on college campus as we continue to hear from Noa and her perspectives on varied topics such as intersectionality, taking back the term Zionism, the future of higher education for young Jews, among many other timely topics. In addition to Noa, we will be in conversation with Abi Streger, a current high school senior who has become very involved in these issues, and Rabbi Larry Sernovitz, CEO of Hillel of Georgia. 

Join us for the first part of this two-part episode! Noa Fay, a recent college student whose efforts have garnered respect from teens all over the country,  was a Jewish student leader at Columbia University, the epicenter of the anti-Israel protest movement that unfolded on American college campuses this past spring. Pro-Hamas, antisemitic, and anti-Israel demonstrators occupied academic buildings, set up overnight tent encampments, and staged demonstrations, all while Jewish students faced increased threats, antisemitism, and violence.Noa will share her first-hand perspective, a perspective experienced by many high school and college students, on what it was like to be Jewish on campus during that time and offer insights into both what to look for when considering schools and how to respond should something similar happen on your campus.

Welcome!

As we enter into the month of Elul and as we approach the High Holy Days, join us for this special episode as we search for the meaning behind these sacred moments. Through the voice of many members, we meditate on topics such as taking spiritual stock (cheshbon ha'nefesh), forgiveness, gratitude, joy, and progress. In these first High Holy Days since October 7th, these lofty ideas of Jewish value take on additional meaning and urgency. 

Rabbi Natan speaks with Israeli tour guide and lecturer Yoav Rotem about his thoughts and experiences living in Israel during this war. Yoav has been traveling around the USA visiting churches and synagogues, trying to spread the truth about Israel. He opens up about the difficulties of raising young children and talks openly about the prospects for Israel's future. 

As most Jewish Israelis have mobilized to serve Israel in one way or another, what does that mean for American Jews and the ways that we can serve the Jewish People? Rabbi Natan speaks with Jonathan Minnen and Judy Bloom Minnen and the inspiring decision they made to volunteer with the Israeli army for two weeks in logistical roles.

Judaism views human life as paramount and the commandment of redeeming the hostages is a sacred one in Israeli society. Israel has paid impossibly heavy prices in the past and will likely continue to do so to bring home her soldiers and her kidnapped civilians. And yet, this brings up difficult moral questions, ones that Israeli leaders and Jews around the world have been grappling with constantly since October 7th. Join Rabbis Sam and Natan for an intimate conversation about some of these most difficult and provocative questions. 

Join Rabbi Natan for a candid and comprehensive conversation with Pastors Nathan and Teddy from Sandy Springs Christian Church. This episode was the third of our congregational meetings together, and included many of the challenging questions that folks presented to the clergy. In conversations ranging from the perceived need for a ceasefire, the situation on college campuses, American politics, and antisemitism, no question, no matter how difficult, was out-of-bounds. These meetings were a wonderful example of interfaith and respectful dialogue around a pressing issue of current events that is critical to the Jewish People. 

Join Rabbi Natan for a highly relevant and provocative discussion with Alisha Tishler, Sinai member and the Southeast Regional Director for AIPAC. She speaks candidly about the impact of October 7th on the Israel American alliance, as well as the fluid situation in the Middle East as it relates to Hamas and Iran. Israel finds herself in a very precarious and isolated situation on the world stage, and the alliance with America has become even more significant. Alisha is on the front lines of this movement and works tirelessly to promote the relationship. 

Do not miss this episode with our recent scholar-in-residence, Dr Rachel Fish. In this conversation with Rabbi Natan, she discusses the precarious situation on college campuses in the wake of 10.7 and how this spills over into larger society. Dr Fish is one of the most articulate and passionate voices and has been sounding the alarms regarding college campuses and antisemitism for many years. Don't miss this conversation and let us know your thoughts. 

Join Rabbi Natan and Dr. Chuck Fox for a fascinating conversation about supporting Israel during these critical times. He shares his experiences volunteering in Israel recently with Young Judea and discusses this through the prism of Zionism's founding purpose of building and redeeming the land. What is the current atmosphere in Israel and what role can each of us play once the dust settles in this war? 

Don't miss this relevant and urgent conversation with Dr John Eaves, former Fulton County Commissioner and social justice activist. Dr Eaves shares his perspectives on what has gone wrong with various social justice movements in the wake of October 7th, and what we can do to stem the tide. His unique perspective as a proudly Jewish and Black man informs his fresh and unfiltered opinions.   

The war has been going on for countless days, and yet we have been counting, meticulously. Join Rabbis Segal and Natan for a conversation about our emotional well-being during these difficult days. How can we find hope even when facing darkness? How do we nurture our souls even after the wounds they have endured, and what is the prayer that Rabbi Segal would like to give us all? 

Join Rabbi Natan for an inspiring talk with Garry Sobel, a congregant and national board member of Friends of the IDF, the amazing humanitarian group that looks after the well-being of Israel's soldiers. Garry is the former chair of the board of the Southeast Division and is a frequent visitor to IDF bases throughout Israel. His powerful words will leave you profoundly moved and inspired, and help you better understand the brave defenders of the Jewish homeland.

Join Rabbi Natan for a provocative conversation with Melanie Nelkin, a congregant and philanthropist, a past president of the American Jewish Committee in the Southeast. She recently came back from a war-time trip to Israel and shares some fascinating insights from her high-level briefings and experiences.

Rabbi Natan speaks with Kevin Abel, a congregant, philanthropist, and someone very active in local and national politics over the past few years. President Biden appointed him to the United States Holocaust Memorial Council earlier this year and his experience helps illuminate the events of the past couple of months.  

Join Rabbi Natan and Sinai congregant Yonatan Ben Tzur for a candid discussion about the war in Israel and Gaza. What impact does the current hostage crisis have on the stated goal of defeating Hamas militarily and operationally? What role have hostages played in Israel historically and psychologically? How has the media's role in the conflict changed and what does this tell us about the changing nature of this war? Yonatan is Israeli born and raised, served for 4 years in the IDF, first in the elite pilot training course of the air force and then became an officer, a first lieutenant, in the armored corps. He is deeply committed to Israel, America, and the Jewish People and helps illuminate some of these key issues in this unique conversation with Rabbi Natan.

The war in Israel has been raging for weeks. Where are we and how can we navigate difficult conversations and controversial topics? Join Rabbis Sam and Natan in a conversation about some of these challenging topics. They'll share some of the conversations they've been having in their home. Hopefully it will inspire you to participate yourself, and to speak about Israel with confidence and conviction. 

It can be hard to be a proudly Jewish and Zionist college student on certain campuses. What should you know about the current war? What are some terms that you may come across, how can you best react, and how can you navigate campus life when faced with intimidation and passionate rhetoric from other students and/or faculty? Join Rabbi Natan and Avery Friedman as they try to break down some of these issues and offer tips on how to best cope during these challenging times.

Israel is at war. Join Rabbi Natan in conversation with Yoav Zilber as they break down some of the vicious events of the past few days. The world has changed and it will never be the same again. What can we do to support Israel and each other?

Join Rabbi Natan and Temple Sinai's clergy for some soulful inspiration for these days of Elul preceding the High Holy Days of 5784. Each reflection will end with the sounding of the shofar. Shana tova u'metukah!

Join Rabbi Natan and Temple Sinai's clergy for some soulful inspiration for these days of Elul preceding the High Holy Days of 5784. Each reflection will end with the sounding of the shofar. Shana tova u'metukah!

Join Rabbi Natan and Temple Sinai's clergy for some soulful inspiration for these days of Elul preceding the High Holy Days of 5784. Each reflection will end with the sounding of the shofar. Shana tova u'metukah!

Join Rabbi Natan and Temple Sinai's clergy for some soulful inspiration for these days of Elul preceding the High Holy Days of 5784. Each reflection will end with the sounding of the shofar. Shana tova u'metukah!

In this spirit of the month of Elul, join Rabbi Natan for an opening reflection on the importance of the season. Afterwards, over the coming weeks, we will be re-releasing some of our favorite mini-episodes from last year. Join Sinai's clergy for some soulful inspiration for these days of Elul in preparation for the High Holy Days of 5784. Each reflection will end with the sounding of the shofar. May this upcoming year be one of health and sweetness!

Join us for our podcast's summer edition as we have a candid and fascinating conversation with Sam Elrod. Learn about raising Jewish and Jew-ish young families from a highly insightful and entertaining member of our community. Though Sam is not Jewish himself, he and his wife Dana, are raising an amazing Jewish family and his provocative reflections on his upbringing and his own Jewish journey will leave you wanting more. His story epitomizes much of the fascinating American Jewish experience of the 21st century.  Thanks y'al

Jews come from all corners of the world and from all races and nations. We are the most diverse People and defy labels and categories that might put us in buckets for other people to understand. Join us for a conversation with Sinai congregant Dr. Tarece Johnson, multiculturalist and author, and hear her fascinating Jewish journey, one that transcends boundaries and labels. It is one that inspires all of us to reevaluate how we define Judaism and how we can create a more sacred community. 

Our guest this month is Doug Ross, who shares his uplifting Jewish journey as a congregant and as a highly active member of the Atlanta Jewish community. Doug has had various prominent roles in Jewish philanthropy whether at Birthright Israel or AIPAC. At a time of dramatic transitions in the Jewish and larger worlds, his enthusiasm is contagious, and his selfless dedication, inspiring. 

Did you know that Sinai has two new congregational engagement managers who have joined the team? Avery Friedman and Carrie Bohn join us and share some of their passions and purposes. Both have interesting stories and insights that will get you thinking about your own Jewish journeys and the choices that you make in your own lives. Enjoy!

Join us for a fascinating discussion with Sinai's Matt Bernes as he shares his story and insights. Whether serving as a green beret for 7 years with multiple Middle East deployments, a corporate banker, or a cattle rancher, the years have not been dull and his strong Jewish identity has always guided him. 

Discovering the Jewish Journey of Temple Sinai Atlantas' Director of Youth Learning & Engagement Mrs Rachel Moldovan 

Join Rabbi Natan for a special panel discussion with guests, Dov Wilker, Regional Director of the American Jewish Committee and Eytan Davidson, Regional Director of the ADL, along with our own Rabbi Samantha Trief. Together they will analyze some of the recent, antisemitic events that have taken up the headlines. Brought to you by Sinai's antisemitism task force as a special follow-up to our conversation, Addressing Antisemitism, a few months ago. 

An interview with Artist-In-Residence, Michelle Citrin

A discussion with Temple Sinai Atlanta's Rabbi Emeritus Phillip N KranzIn 5783 (2022/3) Rabbi Natan will continue to moderate the podcast as we focus on the theme of Amazing Jewish Journeys. You should expect to hear some familiar voices from your clergy, as well as some of the amazing staff and lay leaders that help keep Temple Sinai so vibrant and relevant. Whether from clergy, staff, or congregants, there are some incredible stories of Jewish perseverance, faith and adventure, stories that provide wisdom and inspiration for our own lives. Join us wherever you are as we dive into some diverse Jewish learning by elevating our own Jewish journeys. 

During these Yamim Noraim, the Days of Awe from Rosh Hashanah through Yom Kippur, we asked our members to share moments of awe from their lives. Listening to them, we can't help but reflect on our own lives to recall moments that continue to inspire us.

A discussion with Temple Sinai Atlanta's Clergy, in our first ever live recording. 

Join Rabbi Natan and Temple Sinai's clergy for some soulful inspiration for these days of Elul preceding the High Holy Days of 5783. Each reflection will end with the sounding of the shofar. Shana tova u'metukah!

Join Rabbi Natan and Temple Sinai's clergy for some soulful inspiration for these days of Elul preceding the High Holy Days of 5783. Each reflection will end with the sounding of the shofar. Shana tova u'metukah!

Join Rabbi Natan and Temple Sinai's clergy for some soulful inspiration for these days of Elul preceding the High Holy Days of 5783. Each reflection will end with the sounding of the shofar. Shana tova u'metukah!

Join Rabbi Natan and Temple Sinai's clergy for some soulful inspiration for these days of Elul preceding the High Holy Days of 5783. Each reflection will end with the sounding of the shofar. Shana tova u'metukah!

Join Rabbi Natan and Temple Sinai's clergy for some soulful inspiration for these days of Elul preceding the High Holy Days of 5783. Each reflection will end with the sounding of the shofar. Shana tova u'metukah!

A discussion with Temple Sinai Atlanta's Rabbi Samantha Shabman Trief

A discussion with Temple Sinai Atlanta's Rabbi Samantha Shabman Trief

A discussion with Temple Sinai Atlanta's Marisa Kaiser